Introduction to the Module
In this module Sonya Kunkel discusses the importance of using small group instruction in a co-taught classroom. She gives practical tips for how to get students into groups, as well as, strategies for making instruction in groups effective. Lastly, she demonstrates how to improve accessibility to grade level content without watering down the curriculum.
Target Audience: All Grade Levels
Questions for Discussion
Answer the following questions as an individual. If possible, have a dialogue with your grade level team, buidling level team, and/or district level team.
1. What are reasons why small group instruction is an effective instructional strategy?
2. What percent of time does Sonya Kunkel suggest that small group instruction be used in a co-taught classroom?
3. What percent of the time are you using small groups? How might you plan to increase the use of small groups?
4. List and describe the strategies that Sonya suggests to increase students' opportunities to respond.
5. What strategies are you currently using or would like to use to increase students’ opportunities to respond?
6. Sonya Kunkel talks about four considerations for planning for engaging independent group work. What are they? Why are they important? Are you considering these when you plan? What works best in your classroom?
Activities
Activity 1:
(approximate time to complete 1 hour)
1. Use direct, explicit instruction to teach students to how use the sticky note and two color highlight pre-reading strategies.
a) Were these strategies effective in helping students to comprehend what they are reading? How do you know?
b) What did you learn as you implemented the strategy? What will you do differently next time?
Activity 2:
(approximate time to complete 1 hour)
2. Pick a strategy to facilitate grouping students. Use direct, explicit instruction to teach this strategy to students.
a) Did this strategy allow students to more easily get into small groups?
b) What did you learn as you implemented the strategy? What will you do differently next time?
Activity 3:
(approximate time to complete 1 hour)
3. Have students use the Pass the Problem strategy in a small group.
a) Did this strategy keep students engaged? Why or why not?
b) What will you do differently the next time to make the strategy more effective?
Resources
Heineman Kunkel, Sonya. Advancing co-teaching practices: strategies for success. Cromwell, CT: Kunkel Consulting Services, 2012. Print.
Heineman Kunkel, Sonya. Inclusion: The Common Core Curriculum and the High Stakes Tests. Cromwell: Heineman Press, 2013. Print.
Video Training: Heineman Kunkel, Sonya. Using Co-Teaching to Increase Learning for All Students, Grades 6-12. Bureau of Education & Research, 2005
Video Training: Heineman Kunkel, Sonya. Practical Classroom Strategies for Making Inclusion More Successful, Grades 6-12. Bureau of Education & Research, 2010